Quick Movie Reviews

There is a delightful irony to the fact that a filmmaker I have diluted myself into believing is my arch nemesis because of all the times he has bored me to death with the assiduous tepidity of his direction has actually made a film that I have found myself constantly needing to defend. Yes, it's lacking in substance and is at times stylistically inconsistent, but so were many noirs of the day. As it is, it's a visual treat with good performances (Tobey Maguire is a bit terrifying, actually) and a suitably convoluted storyline.
I say give Soderbergh this one. God knows he needs it.

so... not the most amazing movie that i've ever seen, but it also wasn't the worst. the plot was decent and characters were so so. if i had to say i would admit that this movie really only has two things going for it; the sets and the cinematography. the sets are amazing, and the cinematography really captures the old black and white film feeling.

A good looking movie with all the right intentions. The problem: Plot and pacing. Plus, did I really care about these characters? No. Clooney is ok. I was pumped for this movie - I love high contrasting BW movies, but not "just cuz."

Full Movie Reviews

It was a hit-and-miss movie. Sometimes it looks great, sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes it's interesting, sometimes it's not. Sometimes I wanted to it to keep going, sometimes I wanted it to just end. Tobey Maguire is greatly miscasted because I didn't believe that he could be a tough guy that can kick around George Clooney. Other than that, everyone is really good, especially Cate Blanchett. She's so elegant and poised (what's new?) that it was a treat to look at the way she acts and listen to her speak. Even though I was confused a lot of the time, I think, in a way, the audiences are supposed to be because they are placed in the middle of the action. I just wish Steven Soderbergh shaped the characters a bit more so that the audience will care for his their fates. He's usually good with ...